The Premier League champions have shown an interest in the Wolves midfielder but officials believe that Jose Mourinho has got word of their plans

Ah, Manchester clubs. Never change.

After being pipped to the signing of Fred – and earlier Alexis Sanchez – by their fierce rivals United, City would presumably want to avoid any further transfer embarrassment – especially when it is Ed Woodward pulling those particular strings.

And yet, just months down the line here we are again. Only this time the target is Wolves’ Ruben Neves, who has made quite the considerable impact in the Midlands since coming to England.

Goal are reporting Pep Guardiola’s men were keen on bringing him to the Etihad in the final days of the transfer window (for us, not the rest of Europe remember).

According to the outlet, the Cityzens did not quite have enough time to persuade Wolves or Jorge Mendes to change their minds after promising Wolves fans Neves would not be sold in the immediate aftermath of promotion.

And how that might come back to bite them.

After the fiasco surrounding Jorginho’s move from Napoli, City are looking to build on their midfield options and see Neves as an ideal choice – but fear the Red Devils could move for him.

That link, they report, comes as Mourinho – another Mendes client – was said to be frustrated by Mendes’ willingness to work with City.

Doesn’t sound like the Jose we know at all, does it? (Thinking emoji face)